Contact lenses are a popular and convenient alternative to glasses for correcting vision problems. However, before you start using contact lenses, it’s essential to have a contact lens examination performed by an eye care professional. This exam is different from a standard eye exam and is specifically designed to ensure that contact lenses will be a safe and effective option for your vision needs.
What Is a Contact Lens Examination?
A contact lens examination goes beyond the traditional eye exam. It includes all the standard tests for checking your overall eye health and vision, but with additional tests to measure and assess your eyes for contact lens use. Your optometrist or ophthalmologist will measure the size and shape of your cornea (the clear front surface of your eye) and assess your tear film to ensure you have enough natural moisture for comfortable lens wear.
Why Are Contact Lens Exams Important?
Wearing ill-fitting or improperly prescribed contact lenses can lead to discomfort, irritation, or even serious eye problems such as infections or corneal damage. A thorough contact lens examination helps prevent these issues by ensuring that the lenses fit your eyes correctly and provide the proper vision correction.
Key reasons why a contact lens examination is essential include:
- Accurate Measurements: Contact lenses need to be tailored to the shape and size of your eyes. The wrong size can cause discomfort or potential damage.
- Assessment of Eye Health: The eye care professional checks your eyes for any conditions that may affect your ability to wear contact lenses safely.
- Trial Fitting: A trial lens fitting ensures the lenses feel comfortable and fit well. You’ll get to try lenses before making a commitment.
- Guidance on Lens Care: The exam includes a lesson on how to insert, remove, and care for your lenses properly.
What Happens During the Exam?
During a contact lens exam, you can expect:
- Vision Tests: Similar to a standard eye exam, these tests measure your vision clarity to determine your prescription.
- Corneal Measurements: Using a keratometer or corneal topography, your doctor will measure the curvature of your cornea to ensure the lenses fit properly.
- Tear Film Evaluation: Since contact lenses sit directly on the eye, it’s essential that your eyes produce enough tears to keep the lenses moist and comfortable.
- Trial Fitting: You may be given trial lenses to wear for a short time to check comfort and fit.
Follow-Up and Lens Options
After the initial fitting, you may need to schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure the lenses fit well and your eyes are adapting properly. During these visits, your eye care professional can address any concerns you may have and discuss various options such as:
- Daily wear lenses: Designed to be worn during the day and removed at night.
- Extended wear lenses: Some lenses are approved for overnight wear, but this depends on your specific eye health.
- Rigid gas permeable lenses: These lenses are more durable and offer sharper vision but may take longer to adjust to than soft lenses.
Conclusion
A contact lens examination is an essential step in your journey to clearer, hassle-free vision. Whether you’re a first-time wearer or looking to update your prescription, ensuring a proper fit will help protect your eyes and maximize your comfort. Consult with your eye care provider to schedule a contact lens examination and explore the options that work best for you.
Feel free to reach out to us at 386-271-0991 for more information or to schedule your next contact lens exam!